8 Business Automation Tools to Save Time

Q: What's the best newer automation tool you use that would save first-time entrepreneurs or sidepreneurs a lot of time?

The following answers are provided by The Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC), an invite-only nonprofit organization comprised of the world's most promising young entrepreneurs. In partnership with Citi, the YEC recently launched #StartupLab, a free virtual mentorship program that helps millions of entrepreneurs start and grow businesses via live video chats, an expert content library and email lessons.

1. IFTTT

I love If This, Then That for helping automate across social media platforms. The “recipes” are endlessly customizable and save so much time. Such as “if I post on WordPress, then share a link on LinkedIn” or “if I share on Twitter, then post on Facebook Fan Page.”

The best automation tool I use to save time (and paper) is the website Bizodo, which allows you to electronically create job applications, feedback forms, contact forms, appointment requests, and more. There’s a free version and there’s an app for it as well.– Andrew Schrage, Money Crashers Personal Finance

3. ToutApp

I spend a lot of time in my email inbox. I write a lot of email. I use email for sales, marketing, PR, etc. I think most entrepreneurs are the same way. ToutApp lets you convert email into a measurable process — with templates, analytics, conversion tracking, etc. It also allows you to collaborate with a team or co-founder on these emails. Hugely valuable.– Andrew Montalenti, Parse.ly

4. Text Expander

I find myself typing the same things on a regular basis, so Text Expander has been a lifesaver. Because I can set up shortcuts for basically any kind of text, I can speed up writing emails, press releases and even social media updates to an incredible point.– Thursday Bram, Hyper Modern Consulting

5. Buffer

Buffer automates social media update by placing each item in a queue with preset times. It’s simple, but so effective at saving time when social media is important but can’t be a real focus.– Derek Flanzraich, Greatist

6. Rapportive

Rapportive is a Google Mail plugin that displays the social media profiles and recent activity of whoever you are corresponding with. This helps you remember your contacts and also allows you to insert topical references in your emails.– Robert J. Moore, RJMetrics

7. Boomerang

I love Boomerang to automate my email reminders so that I never forget to follow up with anyone or to take action on a specific email.– Jennifer Grayeb, FitFluential

8. Infusionsoft

Infusionsoft has been an invaluable automation tool for us and many of our clients. This allows for the automation of fulfillment, marketing strategies, data collection, and more. This tool has quickly become a linchpin in our organization.– Charles Gaudet, Predictable Profits